Respect human rights, restore democratic norms in Kashmir: US Congresswoman Ilhan Omar

US Congresswoman Ilhan Omar on Tuesday said there should be immediate restoration of communication in Kashmir. Taking to Twitter, Ilhan wrote: “We should be calling for an immediate restoration of communication; respect for human rights, democratic norms, and religious freedom; and de-escalation in Kashmir. International organizations should be allowed to fully document what is happening on the ground.” Tensions are high in Kashmir after New Delhi on August 5 announced abrogation of provisions of Article 370 and decided to bifurcate the state into Union territories - Jammu and Kashmir and Ladakh - hours after Kashmir was placed under a total clampdown.

The tweet came after US President Donald Trump on Monday took a U-turn from his earlier statement on mediation between India and Pakistan on the Kashmir issue.

We spoke last night about Kashmir, the Prime Minister (Narendra Modi) really feels he has it (situation) under control. They speak with Pakistan and I'm sure that they will be able to do something that will be very good," Trump said during a media interaction on the sidelines of the G7 summit in the French town of Biarritz.

Modi also categorically rejected any scope for third party mediation between India and Pakistan on Kashmir, saying the two countries can discuss and resolve all issues bilaterally and "we don't want to trouble any third country."

"I have very good relationship with both the gentlemen (Modi and Pakistan Imran Khan) and I'm here. I think they can do it (resolve the issue) themselves," Trump said, adding: "We are talking about trade, we're talking about military and many different things. We had some great discussions; we were together last night for dinner and I learned a lot about India."